Ingredients

• 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
• 8 ounces cremini or portobello mushrooms, cleaned and diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 6 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth (for meat version)
• 1 (15-ounce) can white beans (such as cannellini or Great Northern), drained and rinsed
• 4 cups kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Protein: For the Meat Option: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside.

2. For the Vegetarian Option: Heat olive oil in the pot. Add the diced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 7-8 minutes. Remove and set aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the onion and carrots. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

4. Stir in the garlic, oregano, thyme, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another minute until fragrant.

5. Add the Liquid and Tomatoes: Pour in the diced tomatoes and broth. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle boil.

6. Simmer the Soup: Add the white beans and either the cooked sausage (meat option) or the sautéed mushrooms (vegetarian option) back into the pot. Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 10 minutes to blend the flavors.

7. Add the Kale: Stir in the chopped kale and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the kale is tender.

8. Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

9. Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.